Adekunbi Ero
The candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, and the only woman in last Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State, Patience Ndidi Ofure-Key, has warned the governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, candidate of the All-Progressives Congress, APC, to be mindful of the “wolves” around him, advising that he could choose “to be sheep for the people”.
Cautioning that “It is easy to get swept up in the current of personal and political interests”, Ofure-Key, in her post-election statement on Monday, reminded Okpebholo that “the eyes of every Edo son and daughter are watching. They will not be silent to an ill-fated government that works against their interests”.
The PRP candidate who scored 635 votes, noted that “the next four years would be critical for the future of our people and our beloved state” having “endured so much hardship, and they are yearning for leadership that will bring peace, progress, and prosperity”.
According to her, “Your role and that of your deputy are pivotal, and although there may be wolves around you, you can choose to be sheep for the people—humble, diligent, and focused on their welfare… I implore you to rise above, to focus on elevating our people, transforming our economy, and providing real solutions to the challenges we face. Edo State needs a leadership that serves, not one that exploits. As the governor-elect, it is your duty to ensure that every decision you make reflects their hopes and dreams for a better tomorrow”.
She said the governorship election was “not just a moment in our state’s history—it was a test of our resolve, our unity, and our belief in the power of democracy”, adding that “We cannot shy away from acknowledging the gaps that hindered the full expression of our people’s will”.
Deploring the “insidious practice of vote-buying” during the just-concluded election, Ofure-Key said It was disheartening to see the future of Edo State “reduced to a transaction”, highlighting the consequences.
“Selling votes for short-term gain comes with dire consequences. It leaves the leadership of our state in the hands of those who have no true intention of serving the people. When we sell our votes, we are selling our children’s future, choosing temporary relief over sustainable solutions. Those who participate in this practice may temporarily solve a financial problem, but they contribute to the cycle of poverty and poor governance that has long held Edo State back. This is a betrayal of our shared future”.
On voter apathy, she noted that “Too many of our citizens chose to stay home, disillusioned by the belief that their votes wouldn’t count. This apathy has serious consequences—not just for the election but for the future of Edo State. When we choose not to exercise our civic duty, we surrender our voice and allow others to decide our future for us”.
The PRP candidate attributed the prevailing sense of hopelessness among many who believe that no matter how much they vote, the outcome had already been decided, to distrust in the system. She encouraged the people that “your vote does count, and your participation in the process is what holds those in power accountable. If we abandon our right to vote, we give those who seek to oppress us even more power.
“My fellow citizens, power ultimately belongs to you. No leader, no government, and no institution can truly govern without your input. Our state’s future is built not by those in office alone but by the collective efforts of every Edo son and daughter who dreams of a better tomorrow. This election has reminded us of the critical role we all play in shaping our destiny.
“We must not allow frustration to deter us from our responsibility. The future of Edo State is not for sale. It belongs to those who believe in justice, fairness, and the common good. You, the people, hold the key to the future, and your continued engagement is crucial for building the Edo we deserve”.
In her message for the women of Edo State, Ofure-Key said “we have made history together. As a woman standing boldly in the governorship race, I want to acknowledge the courage, resilience, and strength of every Edo woman who has supported this movement. You have shown that our voices matter and that we are no longer content to sit on the sidelines of leadership.
“Even though we may not have clinched the governorship this time, the fact that we stood firm and presented a credible alternative has broken barriers. This is not the end—it is the beginning. We will continue to fight for our rightful place in leadership, decision-making, and shaping the future of our state and country.
“I encourage you all to continue to support one another, to mentor younger women, and to stand tall in every space you occupy. The road to true equality may seem long, but we are closer today than we were yesterday. We must continue to bridge the gap of inequality, fight for equity, and work towards policies that favor women, children, and the entire family. I believe that together, we will create a future where women’s contributions are not just acknowledged but celebrated and embraced”.
She said though the journey had not been easy, she would not give up. “My resolve to fight for a better Edo State remains as strong as ever. This election is just one chapter in the story of our great state, and I remain committed to ensuring that the next chapter is one of progress, equity, and opportunity for all.
“We must continue to demand better from our leaders. We must continue to speak out against corruption, vote buying, and voter apathy. We must continue to fight for an Edo State where every citizen’s voice is heard and valued.
“Together, we can and will attain a better Edo State—one where education is prioritized, healthcare is accessible, infrastructure is reliable, and opportunities abound for every man, woman, and child”
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